Pipeline Rupture Sparks Early Morning Fire

PYOTE, TX — A pipeline rupture early Friday morning caused a structure fire and damaged electrical poles along the Interstate 20 corridor near Pyote.

The Monahans Volunteer Fire Department responded to the incident at the 57-mile marker on the south service road of I-20 after receiving reports of an explosion. Firefighting units, including a pumper, a brush truck, and a water tender, were dispatched to the scene.

Upon arrival, crews discovered a ruptured pipeline at an oilfield location between the 66 and 57-mile markers. The rupture resulted in a fire that fully engulfed a nearby structure and several electrical poles, prompting a joint firefighting effort with the Wickett Fire Department.

The operation lasted nine hours, information stated. 

Support was also provided by Ward County Precinct 4, which had water trucks on standby, and Ward County EMS, which remained on standby at the scene. Additional assistance came from West Odessa Fire Rescue, who contributed manpower and a thermal drone to detect hot spots.

The cause of the incident is still under investigation by the pipeline companies.